Not lost in translation – detecting BIM changes

A new package from 3D Repo offers effective real-time BIM change detection. This cloud-based change detection software can be used for 3D construction models to avert BIM issues from unregistered changes. This solution is said to provide a fast and reliable way to detect changes in underlying 3D models, using an encrypted web browser. The patent pending innovation operates on any 3D models, regardless of their file type, software used to produce them or file size. Called 3D Diff, the 3D Repo solution also a
May 22, 2018 Read time: 2 mins
A new package from 3D Repo offers effective real-time BIM change detection. This cloud-based change detection software can be used for 3D construction models to avert BIM issues from unregistered changes. This solution is said to provide a fast and reliable way to detect changes in underlying 3D models, using an encrypted web browser. The patent pending innovation operates on any 3D models, regardless of their file type, software used to produce them or file size. Called 3D Diff, the 3D Repo solution also allows users to share visualisations with project partners and stakeholders irrespective of location or time-zone.


The change detection algorithm allows users to mix and match models from different modelling tools and pipelines and still identify what has changed over time between revisions. This tool is important for design coordination stages, and also throughout construction when contractors introduce as-built models. It is important too for litigation to attribute who did what for legal liabilities and financial claims.

By comparing the actual geometry of a model rather than underlying, software specific object IDs or labels, 3D Diff can detect changes between models from different sources. A user can pass 3D models from PDMS to Navisworks as well as to 7981 Tekla due to project specific requirements. Without 3D Diff, there is no way of verifying what data has been lost in translation from one package to the next. 3D Diff runs in real time, regardless of the model file size, so even complex projects can be checked quickly.

The firm says that this fast, effective, software independent solution for change and clash detection requires no installation of desktop software. Data is encrypted and project privileges, such as view only or edit, can be assigned to individual project partners.

Connected Construction

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • The next generation of the WR series delivers higher mixing performance and quality
    June 2, 2025
    At bauma, Wirtgen presented the latest generation of the WR series, developed by the company especially for cold recycling and stabilisation applications. The machines impress with an optimised operating concept and consistently high productivity and mixing quality. With the new operator’s cabin and a revised and improved operating concept, the WR series machines enable the achievement of particularly efficient and cost-effective workflows.
    Read More
  • BOMAG’s smart asphalt compaction technology in use
    May 25, 2016
    BOMAG’s highly sophisticated compaction control technology is now being used successfully on the highway project to link Warsaw with St Petersburg. The system is being employed in the rural area around the border triangle of Lithuania, Latvia and Belarus. Lithuanian road contractor Panevezio Keliai won the package of works to upgrade a stretch of the E262 in Zarasai. The project requires high quality as the E262 route links Warsaw with St Petersburg and carries a large volume of traffic, including a hig
    Read More
  • Crushing and screening advances introduced
    June 10, 2019
    New developments in crushing and screening equipment as well as washing technology will deliver benefits for materials production - Mike Woof writes Competition is tough in the market for quarry material processing equipment, with key firms introducing new systems that are said to boost capacity and performance. Firms offering crushing and screening equipment have expanded their respective ranges, offering additional capabilities for these segments. Mobility and versatility have been key factors in the d
    Read More
  • New ice detection technology for motorists
    January 23, 2013
    A new technology developed by the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland provides drivers with warnings of black ice on the roads. This automatic detection system will warn a driver in advance that a road is dangerous due to the presence of ice. According to VTT, this uses a novel, real-time method of obtaining information on road surface friction and employs data collected from the car’s in-built sensors. This compares the speeds of the drive shafts and axles in an array of driving conditions, with an al
    Read More

Highlighted Content